Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels with Chiari malformation walk
By Olsen, Emil et al.·Published in BMC veterinary research·2017·Department of Clinical Science and Services, United Kingdom·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Cavalier King Charles Spaniels with Chiari-like malformation and Syringomyelia have increased variability of spatio-temporal gait characteristics.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A group of Cavalier King Charles Spaniels with Chiari-like malformation (a brain condition) and Syringomyelia (fluid-filled cavities in the spinal cord) showed noticeable changes in their walking patterns. These dogs had more variability in how they moved compared to healthy Border Terriers, with a wider stance in their front legs. This condition can lead to pain and difficulty walking, so it's important for owners to monitor their pets for any signs of discomfort or changes in movement. Treatment options may include pain management and surgery, depending on the severity of the symptoms.
People also search for: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel walking problems · Chiari-like malformation treatment · Syringomyelia symptoms in dogs
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Chiari-like malformation in the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is a herniation of the cerebellum and brainstem into or through the foramen magnum. This condition predisposes to Syringomyelia; fluid filled syrinxes within the spinal cord. The resulting pathology in spinal cord and cerebellum create neuropathic pain and changes in gait. This study aims to quantify the changes in gait for Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with Chiari-like malformation and Syringomyelia. METHODS: We compared Cavalier King Charles Spaniel with Chiari-like malformation with (n = 9) and without (n = 8) Syringomyelia to Border Terriers (n = 8). Two video cameras and manual tracking was used to quantify gait parameters. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: We found a significant increase in coefficient of variation for the spatio-temporal characteristics and ipsilateral distance between paws and a wider base of support in the thoracic limbs but not in the pelvic limbs for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels compared with the border terrier.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28587601/